EPCS board approves teachers' master contract

WINAMAC - A new master contract with the Eastern Pulaski Teachers Association was approved by the Eastern Pulaski Community School Board at its month meeting Monday evening (Nov. 13).

Superintendent Dan Foster recommended an approximate three percent increase in compensation and some updated language in the contract. The contract was earlier approved by the teachers association.

The board also approved a compensation plan for employees not covered under the collective bargaining agreement. Foster presented a recommendation that was a two-step plan, which included a three-day stipend for most employees and an approximately three percent increase to the base pay. Extra-curricular secretaries will receive an increase in pay, and a new pay schedule for substitute teachers was included in the plan. Bus drivers were recommended for an increase to $80 per day. After discussion, the board approved the recommendation.

In other business, the board approved the second reading of School Board Policy Section 208/313/405 (Employee Arrest).

Foster presented the first reading of School Board Policy Section 618 (Staff Social Media). The second reading and possible approval will be presented at the next meeting.

Harold Welter, representing the Cheryl Lynn Welter Charitable Trust Foundation, asked for support from the school to participate in the program whereby under privileged students could receive the supplies they need through grants applied for by teachers and approved by the building principals. Board consensus was to approve the program.

During the "Spotlight on EPES!" portion of the board meeting, Elementary school principal Jill Collins introduced Mrs. Hileman and Mrs. Kistler, sponsors of the Lego Club. Mrs. Hileman stated that the club grew out of helping students with socializing and is a mentorship tool as well. The Pulaski County Community Foundation approved their grant application to help with costs. The students make the club rules, approved by the sponsors. The background of the club was shared as well.

In his report, Foster covered the following:

  • Commended drama director Patrick Schuttrow, students and volunteers for another great performance during fall play.
  • Commended the buildings for their Veterans’ Day programs.
  • Commended Mrs. Hileman and Mrs. Kistler for sponsoring the Lego Club at the elementary school. Mr. Wegner was commended for sponsoring the Coding Club and the Robotics Club.
  • Reported the elementary school gym floor is done and Fissel’s has completed its project. Miller’s Carpet is still working on the carpeting project.
  • Gave a financial report for the period ending Oct. 31. All funds have positive balances. After discussion the board voted to approve all claims as submitted.

 

Personnel Matters:

  • Tara Terry, elementary school instructional assistant, submitted her resignation.
  • Kari Johnson submitted her resignation as JV girls’ basketball coach.
  • Alexsondra Haschel was recommended for the open instructional assistant position.
  • The slate of winter sports coaches was presented for approval.

After discussion, the board approved the above recommendations as submitted.

Emily Hintz, high school Science Olympiad sponsor, submitted an out-of state field trip request to take the team to Michigan for competition. After discussion, the board approved the trip, as submitted.

 

Principal Reports:

High school principal Rick DeFries reported that the Veteran’s Day program went well; WCHS graduate Adam Wallace was the speaker. The band and choir were thanked for their performances during the program.

For Red Ribbon Week there were speakers brought in on drug addiction, sharing the problems associated with it.

The fall play, “It’s a Wonderful Life,” was very well done. Mr. Schuttrow was commended as well as the students and volunteers.

High school winter sports are underway.

Middle school principal Ryan Dickinson reported that for Red Ribbon Week there were speakers brought in on drug addiction, sharing the problems associated with it.

The Veterans’ Day program went well.

The Junior Achievement program is underway.

“Battle of the Books,” a reading incentive program is underway.

Upcoming activities were also shared.

Elementary school principal Jill Collins shared that the Veterans’ Day program at the elementary school went well and was well attended, with many students bringing guests.

Their recent food drive netted 2,421 items.

Family Literacy Night is scheduled for Nov. 16. Students are to bring grandparents.

Upcoming activities were also shared.

The elementary is offering a mentorship program whereby community members come in and visit with students.

 

Board comment: The EPTA was commended for ratifying the Master Contract. Also commended were Mr. Welter, and the Lego Club.

During public comment Ms. Jona Ewasiak submitted a petition.